Barnes’ Suspension Is Not Over Yet

Matt Barnes’ academic suspension probably will not be lifted in time for him to play Saturday against DePaul, Bruin officials said Tuesday.

Barnes had set that as his target return date, after missing the first four games because of academic difficulties that came, he said, from failing a music class in summer school. But he has a final examination Friday, making it unlikely that the grade will be posted Saturday morning, in time to be cleared for the 3 p.m. tipoff at Pauley Pavilion.

The Bruins leave for Hawaii and the Pearl Harbor Classic the next day. Barnes could be back by then, in time to accompany them. Or he may have to remain in delay mode and stay behind for at least a day or two, depending on how quickly the grades come through, and then fly to Honolulu on his own.

The first game on Oahu is Tuesday, against Maine. It is the start to the three-day tournament, and there is a chance Barnes will join the Bruins during the tournament.

Each scenario depends on Barnes doing well this week on the finals, but he insists that won’t be an issue. School officials are not allowed to discuss students’ grades, but Coach Steve Lavin said updates indicate Barnes has made the necessary improvements.

“In general, across the board, we’re pleased with Matt’s progress, on and off the floor,” Lavin said.

Barnes, a sophomore forward, started eight times last season and averaged 13.1 minutes and 3.9 points.